Savory Chinese Beef and Broccoli: A Flavorful Delight

Recipe By:
Rosy Ranera
Updated:

The aroma of sizzling beef and fresh broccoli wafts through the air, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Chinese beef and broccoli is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to bustling street markets and cozy family dinners, where every bite tells a story.

Growing up, this dish was my go-to for impressing friends and family alike. Just one whiff of that savory soy sauce and tender beef brings back memories of my mom expertly tossing ingredients in the kitchen while I tried to sneak bites before dinner was served. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to elevate your culinary game.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delightful Chinese beef and broccoli is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The bold flavors meld together beautifully, creating a savory dish that everyone will rave about.
  • Its vibrant green broccoli paired with tender beef creates an eye-catching presentation on any table.
  • Plus, you can easily customize it with extra veggies or serve it over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients for chinese beef and broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Beef Flank Steak: Opt for flank steak as it’s lean and tender when sliced against the grain.

  • Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best crunch and flavor.

  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce works best, allowing you to control the saltiness.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor.

  • Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth—don’t skip it!

  • Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil gives a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

  • Cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect glossy finish.

For the Sauce:

  • Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth for a rich base without overpowering saltiness.

  • Sugar: A touch of sugar balances the savory flavors in the sauce beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for chinese beef and broccoli

How to Make chinese beef and broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by thinly slicing your flank steak against the grain into bite-sized strips. This ensures each piece remains tender after cooking. Next, chop your broccoli into florets.

Step 2: Create the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Mix until well blended. Toss in your beef strips and let them marinate while you prep other ingredients (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add some oil (vegetable or sesame) once hot. Quickly stir-fry the marinated beef until browned—about three minutes should do it! Remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Broccoli

In the same skillet, toss in your broccoli florets along with a splash of water (to create steam). Stir-fry them for about five minutes until they are bright green but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return your cooked beef to the skillet with broccoli. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture and stir everything together until well coated. Let it simmer for another two minutes so those flavors can meld nicely.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your beautiful Chinese beef and broccoli onto plates or bowls over steamed rice or noodles if desired. Drizzle any leftover sauce on top for that perfect finishing touch!

Enjoy this wholesome meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings people together around the table!

You Must Know

  • This delicious Chinese beef and broccoli dish is not just about flavor; it makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
  • The colorful veggies and tender beef create a visual feast on your table, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night in.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sear the beef until it’s beautifully browned. While that sizzles, steam the broccoli to keep it vibrant and crisp. Then combine everything with the savory sauce for ultimate flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the broccoli for snow peas or bell peppers if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a splash of sesame oil or some red pepper flakes for an extra kick of flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive that saucy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect Chinese beef and broccoli, slice your beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking; this ensures even browning.
  • Lastly, always have your ingredients prepped before you start cooking to keep things smooth and efficient.

Sometimes I whip up this dish when friends come over, and their delighted reactions remind me why I love cooking so much—nothing beats good food shared with great company!

FAQs :

What is the best way to prepare Chinese beef and broccoli?

To prepare Chinese beef and broccoli, start by marinating thinly sliced beef in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil for about 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Next, stir-fry the beef in a hot wok until browned. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry until tender-crisp. Finally, pour in a sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar. Serve this delicious dish over steamed rice for a balanced meal that highlights the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine.

Can I use other vegetables in my Chinese beef and broccoli?

Yes! While broccoli is traditional, you can incorporate other vegetables into your Chinese beef and broccoli dish. Snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrition. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly so that all vegetables are tender yet crisp. Mixing different vegetables not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds variety to the flavor profile. Experimenting with seasonal produce can yield delightful results in this classic recipe.

How do I store leftovers of Chinese beef and broccoli?

To store leftovers of Chinese beef and broccoli properly, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator where it should last for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop until heated through. If you find that the sauce has thickened during storage, adding a splash of water or broth can help restore its original consistency. Enjoy your leftovers by serving them over fresh rice or noodles.

Is Chinese beef and broccoli healthy?

Chinese beef and broccoli can be a healthy meal choice when prepared mindfully. Beef provides essential protein and iron while broccoli offers vitamins C and K along with fiber. To keep it healthy, opt for lean cuts of beef like flank or sirloin and use minimal oil while stir-frying. You can also reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce without sacrificing flavor. Balancing this dish with whole grains or brown rice further enhances its nutritional value.

Conclusion for chinese beef and broccoli :

In summary, Chinese beef and broccoli is a flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare at home. By marinating the beef and selecting fresh vegetables, you enhance both taste and nutrition. Storing leftovers correctly ensures you can enjoy this delightful meal later on without losing quality. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe stands out as a healthy option packed with protein and veggies, making it a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Print

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Chinese beef and broccoli is a classic stir-fry that brings together tender flank steak, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce. This quick and satisfying dish captures the essence of homemade Chinese cuisine, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, Chinese beef and broccoli is sure to impress everyone at your table while being easy enough to whip up in no time.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Slice the flank steak against the grain and chop the broccoli into florets.
  2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add sliced beef and marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry marinated beef until browned (about 3 minutes). Remove from skillet.
  4. In the same skillet, add broccoli and a splash of water. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until bright green and crisp.
  5. Return beef to the skillet with broccoli. Pour in beef broth and sugar; stir until well coated and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
  6. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added flavor options, consider incorporating snap peas or bell peppers into your stir-fry. You can adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes if desired. Always prep all ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking process.

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